Memorial Day is celebrated through various customs, such as visiting cemeteries, participating in parades, hosting family gatherings, and hosting barbecues. Since many Americans use the long weekend for travel or outdoor activities, it also informally heralds the start of summer in the US. The celebration’s primary objective is to honor those who have lost their lives in the service of their nation.
Continue reading to learn more about Memorial Day.
What is Memorial Day?
Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States every year on the last Monday in May. This day commemorates and honors the men and women who lost their lives while serving in the US military. After the Civil War, it was first observed as Decoration Day to honor Union and Confederate troops who had lost their lives in battle. Memorial Day has grown throughout time to include all American service members who have lost their lives while serving their country.
An article by PBS, a free-to-air, non-commercial public broadcaster and television network in North America, says, ” Memorial Day is a day of both celebration and grief, accounting for the honor of our heroes and reflecting on their tragic loss.” The day honors the sacrifices of fallen troops and honors veterans and military members. This happens in parades and involves flying the American flag. Many communities hold ceremonies and festivities to honor the sacrifices made by those who lost their lives for their nation.
History
The origins of Memorial Day, formerly called Decoration Day, may be traced to the years following the American Civil War. The Civil War, lasting from 1861 to 1865, saw an estimated 620,000 deaths from both Union and Confederate sides.
An article by History, a history channel, says, “The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land,”. Memorial Day is a time for introspection, remembering, and community unity. This honors the brave men and women who fought for the United States of America.
Significance
Memorial Day is a day to remember those who gave their lives while serving in the armed forces of the United States. It draws attention to the human cost of war and promotes historical reflection on the nation, especially in times of conflict. Memorial Day provides an opportunity for Americans to show their appreciation for one another’s sacrifices and their service. By preserving the memory of dead troops it encourages coming generations to respect their service and work for world peace.
Memorial Day, which dates back to the Civil War’s aftermath, is a national holiday commemorating the sacrifices made by the US armed forces. Americans unite through ceremonies, memorials, and acts of memory to honor those who served, reflect on freedom, and show appreciation.
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